Summary

A short prose section introduces the main characters of the poem. Gripir, the wisest of all men, possesses the gift of prophecy. He is brother to Hiordis and son of Eylimi. Sigurd is out riding one day and happens upon Gripir's hall. He speaks with a man named Geitir outside the hall and their exchange is told in verse.

Sigurd inquires about the inhabitants and king of the hall. Geitir tells him that Gripir rules the land and states that he will need to know the stranger's name before he can ask the king to speak with him. Sigurd identifies himself as the son of Sigmund and Hiordis. Geiter relays the message to Gripir who goes out to greet Sigurd.

The men converse for awhile before Sigurd poses the question which is the catalyst for the entire poem: he desires to be told his fate. Gripir...